We already know that heavy drinking can lead to depression, and that heavy depression can lead to drinking. But does that mean alcoholism and major depression are always linked?

The word “epidemic” is being used to describe the rising number of prescription painkiller overdoses - perhaps rightfully so, as painkiller overdoses have crept into the top 10 causes of death.

One of the worst things a person with asthma can do is smoke, or even be around tobacco smoke. Fortunately, fewer asthmatic kids are smoking or are around secondhand smoke.

It’s no secret that compatibility is an important part of any successful marriage. Is compatibility also important when it comes to drinking? Spouses who share similar drinking habits may get along better.

Training individuals who use illegal injection drugs on safer practices may help other drug users in the community improve safety. Safer practices could lower risk of spreading HIV.

Certain ethnicities may be at higher risk for committing suicide while intoxicated. It’s not clear why these groups have a higher risk, but the information could be used for suicide prevention strategies.

Smoking marijuana may increase the chances of heart attack immediately after use. For those who have had a heart attack, continued pot smoking may be linked to a shorter life span.

What do kids learn when they see TV advertisements that make drinking look awesome? They certainly aren’t learning to wait till they’re old enough.

Living through a brain bleed may provide a second chance to quit smoking. Kicking the habit and taking care of blood pressure and cholesterol can help keep these patients alive.

Where can teens learn the truth about unhealthy drinking habits? Doctors are an authority on the health risks. Maybe a quick word during an exam could increase education.